Florida Keys--Pesticide Found floating in water

The skull-and-crossbones was evident, but bridge fishermen on Tavernier Creek knew this was no pirate’s treasure.

Two packages of a pesticide floated into Upper Keys shores over the weekend, one found near the Tavernier Creek Bridge and the other near Harry Harris Park.

"The fishermen saw the skull-and-crossbones marking – a hazardous materials warning – and called 911," said Islamorada Fire Chief William Wagner. "The Sheriff’s [Office] deputies saw it and called us."

He said the packages had contained aluminum phosphine, which emits a toxic gas that kills insects in stored grain.

"We believe most of the product was spent, probably on a cargo ship, and then the packages were thrown overboard," said Wagner. "But anybody seeing one of these packages should play it safe and call authorities."

09-11 .. 343 "All Gave Some..Some Gave ALL" God Bless..R.I.P.
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IACOJ Minister of Southern Comfort
"Purple Hydrant" Recipient (3 Times)
BMI Investigator
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The comments, opinions, and positions expressed here are mine. They are expressed respectfully, in the spirit of safety and progress. They do not reflect the opinions or positions of my employer or my department.